Barely off the plane from Saudi Arabia, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago headed straight to flood-ravaged Mokwa, where he described the devastation as a disaster “Niger State and Nigeria can’t afford again.”
With scenes of submerged homes, stranded families, and missing children still fresh in the minds of residents, the Governor wasted no time in responding decisively to the crisis.
Governor Bago immediately donated ₦1 billion in state emergency funds to aid victims, rebuild critical infrastructure, and begin long-term resettlement planning.
“This is a human tragedy that we must not just mourn — we must act,” the governor said during his visit. “These lives matter. Their safety is non-negotiable.”
To prevent further loss of life, Governor Bago ordered the immediate evacuation of residents living in flood-prone riverine areas.
He also directed that new land be allocated, with Certificates of Occupancy (CofOs) provided to facilitate a Federal Government resettlement plan, ensuring affected communities are safely relocated.
In a long-term vision to tackle recurring flooding, he promised the construction of permanent drainage systems and bridges in Mokwa and other vulnerable areas.
In a clear message to government officials and relief agencies, Governor Bago vowed complete transparency in managing relief funds and called on all stakeholders — local and international — to support Niger State in building climate resilience.
“We will be accountable. Every naira meant for flood victims will reach them. We will not allow disaster to become opportunity for corruption,” he declared.
One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of the disaster was the fate of Almajiri children, many of whom remain missing after the floods. The Governor urged Islamic teachers to maintain proper records of their students to help with rescue and identification efforts in future emergencies.
“We cannot protect what we cannot count. These children deserve better — not just spiritually, but physically and socially too,” he said somberly.
Governor Bago extended heartfelt thanks to donors who have already stepped in to support flood victims and called for more assistance as the state embarks on both humanitarian relief and long-term resilience strategies.
Governor Bago’s rapid response and proactive leadership have been praised by many as an example of governance rooted in empathy and urgency.
As Niger State begins the long road to recovery, all eyes will be on how this ₦1 billion commitment and the larger resettlement and reconstruction efforts unfold — and whether they will mark a turning point in disaster management across Nigeria.
